Maria Florinda Bellino-Riss was called to heaven, while surrounded by family on March 17, 2017.
She was born and raised in the Pagosa Springs, CO area. Her family moved to Durango, where she was a longtime resident. After raising her 10 children, she continued her education by earning a Child Development associates degree. She was a school teacher for head start in Durango and retired from the program. After retirement, Florinda married Richard Riss II and they traveled the world together. Florinda loved life and enjoyed it to the fullest, even though she lost her eye sight in last few years. Her son Tony said of his mother, “She was strong-willed and unselfish.” Many claimed her as mom, grandma and sister.
She is survived by her children: Dorothy (Steve) Mason, Molly Bellino (Richard Jensen), Dennis (Maria) Bellino, Angie(James)Alcon, Lucy (Steve) Miller, Tony (Tammy) Bellino, Jeff Bennie Bellino, Linda (Don)Coy; 5 siblings; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her husband Richard Riss II; parents Juan & Emilia Villarreal; daughter Loretta Kratz; son Nick D. Bellino; and three grandchildren, Justin Trujillo, Anthony Bellino and Jerry Ulibarri Jr..
Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 22, 2017, from 6 pm – 8pm, at Hood Mortuary Chapel, 1261 E. 3rd Ave., Durango, CO 81301. A recitation of the Rosary will be presented by Deacon Larry Tucker, Friday, March 24, 2017 at 7:30pm, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 254 E 5th Ave., Durango, CO 81301.
A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 10 am, also at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, burial will occur directly after services at Greenmount Cemetery, 900 Cemetery Road, Durango, CO 81301. Reception dinner will follow at Sacred Heart Reception Hall.